February 21, 2008 at 12:00 AM
"Leaving PSAC and joining the CAW was a long process for my group. The GTAA has actually provided you with a fantastic opportunity because you can leave the Public Service Alliance of Canada without any hassle.
We left PSAC because we felt that we did not have a "voice", our concerns were not heard, representation was lacking, grievances took too long to resolve, and there was a definite feeling of mistrust towards the union. In October 2006, we became members of CAW Local 1016. Since then, we have bargained our first collective agreement which resulted in a pay increase, more time off and improved premiums. Now there is stronger unity within our own membership and we are no longer afraid to question or challenge the company or the union. We are stronger because we’ve got the strength of the CAW behind us."
Chris Lizotte, employee of NavCanada
CAW Local 1016
"In 2005, the members at Webb airport services decided we needed to join a union. After doing our research, the choice became quite clear that the CAW was the best union to represent us. We wanted to become members of the CAW because of their expertise in collective bargaining, their collective strength to lobby the government and passion for social justice. The CAWwas the best choice - we have continued to see positive change in our workplace thanks to the professional and knowledgeable service we receive from our local union (CAW 2002). The CAW has exceeded my expectations and my collective agreement is a testament to that fact."
Chuck Doyle, employee of Jervais B. Webb
CAW Local 2002
"We left PSAC after a long strike; basically we had to accept an offer that was less than what was originally offered to us. As radio operators, my group provides Air and Marine communications and weather observing services, so we are considered essential services. The act of walking off the job meant that many of us were suspended for 3, 5, 8 or 12 days without pay as a disciplinary measure. I’m sure you can imagine our frustration with the whole situation. Eventually, we decided to leave PSAC and later joined the CAW in 2000.
Our experience with CAW has been very positive. We are a local of 350 members with full autonomy. We like it that way because we represent our members with the help of our National Representative and the assistance of the specialists that are available from the National Office. If I had to make the decision again, I would join the CAW. The CAW is the way to go."
Martin Grégoire, Radio Operator, Coast Guard
CAW Local 2182
"As the President of a Technical, Office and Professional Local of the CAW, I encourage you to join our union. I have been a member of this union for 30 years and have witnessed first hand how the CAW makes a difference. The CAW is a union that is the envy of others because of our education programs, resources and profile.
We also negotiate agreements that others can only dream about. However, it is not our prowess at the bargaining table that makes the difference; it’s our commitment to the broader community, both within our borders and abroad."
Maria Pinto, Bombardier
CAW Local 673
"I highly recommend that you get on board with the CAW. As a skilled trades’ worker, it means a lot to have a union that advocates at the bargaining table and through lobbying efforts. The CAW has made progress in eliminating wage disparity for skilled trades’ workers and to ensure that more apprentices are hired.
The union also sits on various government boards to ensure proper apprenticeship guidelines are followed and funding for apprentices is improved. Our union doesn’t just have a reputation for making real gains – our union delivers."
Frank Wright, University of Manitoba
CAW Local 3007
The Time for Real Change is Now – Vote CAW